Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin - Collaborative Research Center for Theoretical Biology

Synaptic conductances during sharp wave-ripple complexes

The mammalian hippocampus displays EEG oscillations at various frequencies related to different behavioural states. Theta (~5-10 Hz) and gamma band (~30-80 Hz) activities occur during spatial exploration and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. At rest and during slow-wave sleep, sharp waves (SPW) and superimposed high-frequency ripples at ~200 Hz can be observed. Theta and gamma periods have been implicated in the acquisition of memory contents while sharp wave-ripple complexes (SPW-R) may serve a role in the consolidation of recently acquired memories. This hypothesis is based on the observation that sequential activation patterns of place cells are established during spatial exploration and re-played, at faster pace, during SPW-R in subsequent episodes of non-REM sleep. The in vitro and in vivo experiments as well as in silico approaches outlined in this proposal are designed to study the role and contribution of hippocampal principal neurons as well as interneurons during SPW-R. Furthermore, we will analyse the dynamic balance of excitation and inhibition during this type of hippocampal network activity.

description of the 1st period german version
description of the 2nd period